Humanitarian team visits Tambura to assess refugee needs
By The City Review
A joint humanitarian team arrived in Tambura County, Western Equatoria State, last week to assess the number and needs of displaced persons affected by violence in the area
This marked the first assessment exercise since renewed fighting broke out between armed groups in October last year.
Mathew Mabenge, the Commissioner of Tambura County, said the most important needs for the IDPs is food because they cannot access their homes or farms, an issues that attracted mixed reactions from such sections of the public who lamented that food was not one of the needs that the area should ask for considering the wealth of resources and agricultural potential.
The citizens asked for an end to the conflict to enable residents go back to their farms to cultivate and contribute to the overall food security in the region.
Commenting on the developments, Sebit Williams, a social media user, said it was sad that an area well known for its agricultural potential had turned to asking for food for survival due to disruptions by violence.
Sebit said: “It’s sad to see that tambura county with if not the most fertile soils in the country will have to rely on humanitarian aid to feed and access other necessities. My question to whom it may concern how long shall we continue that way, when will the innocent poor civilians who are trying to make ends meet ever feel safe in their own homes?”
In the last months, violence has escalated in Tambura County, resulting to loss of lives, displacement of people and widespread fear.
Wednesday attack at a church hosting internally displaced persons in Tombura County, Western Equatoria State, was the latest among various incidences that have been reported in the region.
On December 11, tragedy struck when unidentified gunmen attacked St. Mary’s Parish Tambura church compound hosting displaced persons, killing two and injuring one.
In a statement issued Thursday, Bishop Edwardo Hiiboro condemned the incident, describing the attack as an affront to humanity and a direct violation of basic human dignity.
“A church, a mosque, and an embassy are sacred places of refuge, peace and safety. These spaces are meant to protect the innocent, not become targets of violence,” he said, adding:
The bishop urged South Sudan government to provide immediate protection for vulnerable populations, especially the disabled.
Meanwhile, the rising insecurity cases have led to spiraling humanitarian challenges, as people leave their homes in search of peace and security in internally displaced centres.